No Regrets

The young osprey is back at the nest calling, some may say screaming, for a fish. The calling can go on for long stretches. Many years ago when we first put up a nest platform for ospreys, we were told that we would regret it.
Not so, the whole nesting process is still a pleasure to watch and we learn so much. And we don't mind the screaming either. It will get pretty quiet in a month or so as the birds head south.

Bluebird Gifts

After the rains yesterday, the sounds of young bluebirds filled the air. They cruised the yard begging for a meal; I saw the adult female in the bird bath. It was great to see them back in the yard. A neighbor who was a retired salesman told me that in sales parlance, 'bluebird' is a term for a sale that falls into the lap without any effort ... a gift so to speak. I always think about that when I see a bluebird; it's a little gift each time.

Marigold

Sometime last year after I selected something special from Miss Lizzie's boutique, I found a pack of marigold seed attached to my receipt as a thank-you. One of those seeds produced this pretty bunch ... merci beaucoup!

Green and Serene

Here's a close up at some of the vegetation in a nearly hidden fresh water pond. Beautiful. I spooked the bullfrog lording over the pond, but I'll try again.

Summer Dining

Old Bay, salt, vinegar and Jimmies equals one fine lunch. The leftovers make one fine crab cake dinner. And we can get fancy with crab stuffed flounder ... summer dining at it's best, all fresh from the Currituck Sound!

The Green Jersey

This morning I'm watching the final day of this year's Tour de France. Winners of different categories wear a special color jersey. Green is for the top sprinter. Here's my version of the Green Jersey ... and yes he can sprint, just try and catch him when he's on a run!

The Flycatcher

This photo was taken in late May. The flycatcher's beak is loaded with nesting material. Flycatchers put some interesting things in their nest box, including a piece of snake skin.